The beloved actor Mark Ruffalo has earned the endearing title “daddy” from his “Hal & Harper” children, Lili Reinhart and Cooper Raiff, who praise his spiritual nature and down-to-earth demeanor, highlighting the deep personal connections forged during the production of their new MUBI drama.
In the world of filmmaking, genuine connections forged on set often elevate a project beyond its script. Such is the case with Mark Ruffalo and his “Hal & Harper” costars, Lili Reinhart and Cooper Raiff. The duo, who play Ruffalo’s children in the upcoming MUBI series, have affectionately revealed why the acclaimed actor is “so daddy” both on and off screen, painting a picture of a set filled with warmth and familial bonds.
The “Daddy” Phenomenon: Kindness and Connection
For Cooper Raiff, who not only stars but also wrote and directed “Hal & Harper,” working with Mark Ruffalo was an “amazing” experience. He described Ruffalo as “a very light, very spiritual person” with “a very, very kind heart” who is “kind to everyone.” This profound sense of warmth made him “extremely down to earth and it’s very freeing to be around him, because he’s so lovely,” Raiff told People magazine. It was this genuine connection that led to the playful but heartfelt descriptor.
Lili Reinhart, known for her role in “Riverdale,” wholeheartedly agreed with Raiff’s sentiment. “He’s our daddy,” she echoed, emphasizing the deep, paternal bond they felt with Ruffalo. This familial connection was so strong that Reinhart admitted to being shocked when she saw Ruffalo in “Poor Things,” which earned him his fourth Oscar nomination. “I was like, ‘Dad!'” she recounted, highlighting how seamlessly Ruffalo integrated into their lives as a father figure.
“Hal & Harper”: A Story of Grief, Growth, and Family Bonds
The new series, “Hal & Harper,” explores complex family dynamics, centering on a father mourning the loss of his wife and the subsequent impact on his children. The show delves into these themes through dual timelines, following Hal and Harper from elementary school into adulthood. Ruffalo’s portrayal of a complicated father figure, coupled with his real-life warmth, undoubtedly enriched the on-screen chemistry and emotional depth of the series.
Raiff explained the genesis of the show: an initial idea of “adults playing kids because the kids grew up too fast,” evolving into an exploration of “emotionally-stunted adults” and the timelines where their emotional development shifted. This intricate narrative structure, intertwining past and present, resonated deeply with Reinhart.
Behind the Scenes: A Script That “Divine Timing” Brought
Lili Reinhart was effusive in her praise for Raiff’s writing, calling “Hal & Harper” “the best script [she’s] ever read” outright. She expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity, feeling it was “divine timing, or God, or the universe putting it in my life.” After her seven-year run on “Riverdale,” Reinhart appreciated the “grounded realness” of the new project, emphasizing her pride in the show and the talented individuals she collaborated with.
The series premiered to critical acclaim at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2025, and new episodes are currently dropping Sundays on MUBI. This release strategy allows viewers to engage with the complex timelines and character development weekly.
The “Karmic Brother-Sister Tie” Between Raiff and Reinhart
Beyond their shared admiration for Mark Ruffalo, Lili Reinhart and Cooper Raiff also formed an incredibly strong bond. Reinhart described their connection as “rare,” akin to a “karmic brother-sister tie.” She doesn’t have a brother in real life but considers Raiff a “spiritual brother” and hopes to continue working with him professionally “for the rest of our lives on various things.”
Raiff reciprocated this sentiment, stating, “Our souls, I think, have been dancing with each other for many lifetimes.” This profound connection between the on-screen siblings mirrors the deep, emotional narratives explored within “Hal & Harper,” adding another layer of authenticity to their performances and the story itself. The palpable camaraderie among the lead actors is a testament to the positive and nurturing environment fostered during the production.
A Legacy of Kindness: Ruffalo’s Enduring Appeal
Mark Ruffalo’s “daddy” designation from his young costars speaks volumes about his character and professional approach. It underscores a reputation for being grounded, kind, and spiritually attuned—qualities that have undoubtedly contributed to his longevity and respect in Hollywood. For fans of classic films, seeing such a revered actor continue to inspire and connect with newer generations of talent offers a reassuring sense of continuity and genuine artistry.
The “Hal & Harper” production appears to be a harmonious blend of creative vision, compelling storytelling, and authentic human connection, promising a MUBI series that will resonate deeply with audiences seeking both emotional depth and a touch of heartfelt comedy.
